How do you measure magic?
More than ever, a holiday needs that fairytale feeling, but deciding on which Disney theme park to visit is like Snow White choosing her favourite dwarf - it's all about taste.
Just as each dwarf possesses its own endearing qualities, every Disney Park boasts its own distinct allure. And with that in mind, we will explore the key differences between Disney's top two parks – Disneyland and
Walt Disney World.
So, to ensure you are Happy and Bashful and not Grumpy and Sleepy, read our guide to the best Disney theme parks for 2024.
The Difference Between Disneyland and Walt Disney World
The USA is home to two of the most renowned theme parks in the world, both brought to life by the visionary Walt Disney. Although Disneyland and Walt Disney World share the enchantment and immersive storytelling that Disney is known for, they possess notable distinctions that make each park truly unique.
Where are Disneyland and Walt Disney World located?
The Most Happiest Place on Earth doubles its location on opposite coasts of the USA. Disneyland is located in Anaheim, a
Californian city a half-hour drive from Los Angeles. On the other hand, Walt Disney World is situated approximately 2,500 miles to the east in
Orlando,
Florida. Despite the distance separating Disneyland and Walt Disney World, both are fortunate to enjoy year-round sunshine and warmth, making them ideal for visits at any time of the year.
Which Park Opened First - Disneyland or Walt Disney World?
On 17 July 1955, Disneyland first opened its gates, captivating visitors with its magical atmosphere. Sixteen years later, on 1 October 1971, Walt Disney World emerged, unveiling its own park. While Disneyland holds the distinction of being the original and true vision of Walt Disney, Walt Disney World in Florida represents a grander realisation of his prospect.
During their initial openings, both Disneyland and Disney World consisted of a single signature park. Disneyland Park was the primary park in Disneyland, while Disney's Magic Kingdom Park held that distinction in Walt Disney World. However, as time passed, both resorts underwent significant expansions, with Walt Disney World experiencing the most substantial growth.
Which Park is Bigger - Disneyland or Walt Disney World?
Covering 500 acres of magic and thrills, Disneyland features two parks, the original Disneyland Park and California Adventure Park, the shopping paradise of Downtown Disney, as well as three Disney hotels. On the other hand, Walt Disney World spans an impressive 27,000 acres offering five parks, two water parks, Disney Springs Area, and over 25 Disney Resort hotels. In fact, you could fit 54 Disneyland parks in the entire Walt Disney World Resort.
Which Park is Better – Disneyland or Walt Disney World?
This one is subjective, and the answer will differ from person to person. If you're craving cutting-edge attractions, an extensive range of experiences, and endless entertainment, then Walt Disney World is a fitting winner. With heart-pounding rides like Expedition Everest, TRON Lightcycle/Run, and Rock' n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, Disney daredevils will undoubtedly satisfy their hunger for adrenaline.
Plus, several thrilling new rides and attractions are set to debut in the coming year. This summer, Tiana's Bayou Adventure opens, replacing Splash Mountain. Inspired by
The Princess and the Frog, this ride takes you through Louisiana's bayous with vibrant music and cultural exploration. Test Track is being transformed for an exhilarating automotive experience with cutting-edge technology, launching in early 2025. And stay tuned for more surprises, including the 4D Zootopia Tree of Life Show and the Pirates of the Caribbean tavern, both opening in 2025.
For those seeking to be immersed in Disney's nostalgia, ride classic attractions, and experience the place where the magic originally began, Disneyland is often the preferred choice.
Operating since 1955, Peter Pan's Flight, Mr Toad's Wild Ride, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant still attract queues of parkgoers every day. But don't worry, you'll still find the thrill-seeking Disney favourites like Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: BREAKOUT!, Hyperspace Mountain, and Indiana Jones™ Adventure at Disney's original park, ensuring that the thrill-seekers are not disappointed.
Which Castle is Taller - Disneyland or Walt Disney World?
A captivating feature present in all Disney parks is the magnificent fairytale castle that takes centre stage. Among these castles, the oldest can be found in Disneyland, standing at a height of 77 feet. Known as Sleeping Beauty's Castle, this enchanting palace incorporates clever optical illusions, with the upper levels tapering in size to create the perception of distance and enhance its grandeur.
In contrast, Disney’s Imagineers had the opportunity to design a significantly larger and taller centrepiece at Walt Disney World due to the expansive area available. The awe-inspiring Cinderella Castle graces the park, soaring to an impressive height of 189 feet, surpassing Disneyland's palatial icon by more than double.
Disney Parks Across the Globe
Shanghai Disneyland
Open since 2016, Shanghai Disneyland is the newest resort on offer. And it’s certainly one of the most unique. The Walt Disney Company partnered with the Chinese government to craft a resort that had a more Chinese ambience, which can be felt instantly from the Disneyland sign itself.
Inside the park, you will find a few notable differences too. Due to cultural reasons, it is the only park not to feature the Haunted Mansion-style ride and the famed railway. Although, having a conveniently designated metro stop for Disneyland may just make up for the latter.
Some top attractions here are the TRON Lightcycle Power Run, Alice in Wonderland Maze, and the re-imagined Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for Sunken Treasure ride. Not to mention the fantastical Enchanted Storybook Castle, home to fine dining, character greetings, and live shows.
Disneyland Paris
The best Disney theme parks wouldn’t be complete without Disneyland Paris. Another staple of the theme park catalogue, this 1992 addition saw America’s animation pioneer set up shop on European soil. In true Parisian style, this Disney theme park specialises in touches of sheer elegance.
From the breathtaking Sleeping Beauty Castle to the stunning island setting of Big Thunder Mountain (the only version to be located on an island), the design of this park is something to marvel at. But thrill seekers may feel a little short changed here as Disneyland Paris does suffer from a case of style over substance with its rather limited ride selection compared to other parks.
Despite its focus on style, Disneyland Paris still offers plenty of entertainment. Exclusive attractions like Ratatouille: The Adventure and classics like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror ensure a memorable experience for visitors. Recent refurbishments, including the revamped It’s a Small World ride and the debut of Avengers: Power the Night drone show, add to the excitement. Frozen fans can anticipate the upcoming Frozen-themed area, scheduled to open in 2025.
And of course, getting to Disneyland Paris couldn’t be easier. You can simply hop aboard the RER train and be at the Disney stop just minutes from the gates.
Tokyo Disneyland
Open since 1983, Tokyo Disneyland was the first to open outside of the US, and since then has garnered a reputation for not just its thrilling rides but also its immaculate service and cleanliness. And with their special Mickey-shaped soap foam, keeping clean never seemed so fun.
While Tokyo Disneyland has all the classics - like It’s a Small World, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Haunted Mansion - it also boasts a few impressive newbies. Join Boo, Sulley, and Mike on a journey through the streets of Monstropolis in Monsters Inc Ride & Go Seek or immerse yourself in a musical teacup ride in the Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast. Then be sure to catch the spectacular Tokyo Electrical Parade Dreamlights after sunset, the perfect way to top off the day.
Hong Kong Disneyland
Hong Kong Disneyland, the smallest of Disney's resorts, will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year, having opened in 2005. Although specific details about the celebrations haven't been disclosed yet, the park is expected to host special events to commemorate this milestone.
Designed with Chinese culture, customs, and traditions in mind, Hong Kong Disneyland incorporates elements like feng shui. The park also features cultural touches such as Chinese architecture and cuisine.
Visitors can explore 7 themed lands such as Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, and Main Street, USA. Iconic attractions include Hyperspace Mountain, a thrilling indoor roller coaster set in the Star Wars universe; Wandering Oaken's Sliding Sleighs, a wild ride through the Arendelle Forest; RC Racer, a high-speed coaster resembling a remote-controlled car; and the classic boat ride It's a Small World, which celebrates global unity.
Are you ready for magic at your door?
Find your once-in-a-lifetime with up to 30% off Orlando holidays, including an exclusive Disney Villa Bundle, free attraction tickets of your choice, and much, much more.
Whether you picture yourself lost in nature or at the crossroads of attractions, our collection of over 2,500 Florida villas can leave the magic of Walt Disney World at your doorstep. To ensure adventure knocks, we’re giving you exclusive savings when you add on Disney 14-Day Magic Tickets.
Book today and you’ll also get a free $40 Disney Park Voucher to spend as you please, a complimentary 20GB e-sim to stay connected as you explore, plus a $100 Takeaway Gift Card to help you recharge and refuel.*
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